Crystal Palace injury news: Wharton, Sarr and Doucoure updates ahead of Sunderland clash

Crystal Palace injury news dominates the build-up to their next Premier League match, with key figures Adam Wharton, Ismaila Sarr and Cheick Doucoure all sidelined. Oliver Glasner’s side remain unbeaten after three matches, including a 3-0 win away at Aston Villa, but fitness concerns could shape their September schedule.

Wharton limped off at Villa Park with an abductor injury, while Sarr scored in the same match before suffering a hamstring problem. Doucoure continues his long rehabilitation from an ACL rupture, and striker Eddie Nketiah is also missing until November with a thigh issue. Can Palace maintain momentum as they juggle injuries and European commitments?

England midfielder Adam Wharton has been ruled out for three weeks after pulling up against Aston Villa. Scans confirmed an abductor issue, meaning he will miss upcoming fixtures against Sunderland, West Ham and Crystal Palace’s London derby against Fulham.

The 21-year-old, signed from Blackburn in 2024, has become a vital cog in Glasner’s midfield. His absence is a setback, particularly with a Conference League trip to Dynamo Kyiv in early October that may come too soon.

Ismaila Sarr, who opened his account at Villa Park, also faces time out after picking up a hamstring problem. Palace expect him to be missing for three to four weeks, keeping him sidelined through most of September.

His pace and directness have been key to Glasner’s wide attacking options. The Eagles must now rely on depth, with Yeremy Pino likely to take on more responsibility.

Cheick Doucoure remains out with a long-term ACL injury. Palace are targeting a late October or early November return, but the club is taking a cautious approach with the Malian midfielder.

Doucoure’s absence has been keenly felt, particularly in defensive transitions. Glasner has rotated Jefferson Lerma and Will Hughes into midfield, but neither offers Doucoure’s control in the pivot.

Chadi Riad, another ACL victim, continues his recovery with no firm return date. The Moroccan defender, signed from Real Betis, has endured a frustrating start at Selhurst Park.

Eddie Nketiah remains sidelined until November after a thigh injury curtailed his pre-season. Meanwhile, Odsonne Edouard (calf) and youngster Caleb Kporha (back) are still being monitored with no set timelines for their comebacks.

Palace’s unbeaten start masks a squad stretched by injuries. Wharton and Sarr’s simultaneous absence robs Glasner of creativity and penetration, while Doucoure’s long-term recovery continues to leave a gap in midfield balance.

The key challenge will be squad depth. Palace’s strong summer window added reinforcements, but Glasner must rotate wisely with European commitments looming. The Sunderland fixture provides a chance to test younger players, but October’s Conference League clash in Kyiv will require key returns.

Palace face newly promoted Sunderland after the international break, followed by clashes with West Ham and Fulham. Glasner will lean on squad rotation to maintain momentum and keep European ambitions alive.

Fans will hope Wharton and Sarr return in time for the Kyiv trip, while Doucoure’s gradual comeback could define Palace’s late autumn form.

Can Oliver Glasner keep Palace’s European push alive despite mounting injuries?